Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the richness of creamy tomato sauce with the convenience of one-pot cooking.
This recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights! With just one pot and simple ingredients, you can whip up a creamy and delicious meal in no time.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation with minimal cleanup
- Creamy, comforting flavors that everyone will adore
- Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep
A Comforting Meal for Any Occasion
This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it a comforting meal that appeals to both kids and adults. Whether you're cooking for a family gathering or just whipping up a quick dinner, this dish delivers on taste and ease.
Not only is this recipe simple, but it also allows you to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a satisfying pasta dish that feels indulgent yet is incredibly accessible.
The Magic of One-Pot Cooking
One-pot cooking has become a popular method in the kitchen, and for good reason. It significantly reduces cleanup time, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle of washing countless dishes. This creamy tomato pasta is prepared in a single pot, which means all the flavors meld beautifully while cooking, resulting in a deliciously cohesive dish.
With this method, you can also customize your pasta by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. Spinach, mushrooms, or grilled chicken can easily be incorporated, making this recipe versatile and adaptable to your taste preferences.
Perfect for Meal Prep
If you're looking to streamline your weekly meals, this Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is an excellent choice for meal prepping. It stores well in the refrigerator and can be easily reheated, maintaining its delicious flavor and creamy consistency. You can prepare a large batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Not only does it save time, but having this comforting dish ready to go can also help curb those late-night cravings. Just pop it in the microwave, and you have a warm, satisfying meal in minutes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, combine the pasta, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Add Cream
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and the sauce thickens.
Serve
Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil, and serve with Parmesan cheese on top.
Enjoy your delicious one-pot meal!
Tips for the Best Results
To ensure your creamy tomato pasta turns out perfectly, be sure to cook the pasta until it's al dente. This means it should be firm to the bite, which will help it absorb the sauce without becoming mushy. Also, remember to stir the mixture occasionally while it cooks to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider sautéing some garlic or onions in the pot before adding the other ingredients. This simple step can elevate the dish and give it a more aromatic profile.
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta! While penne and fusilli work wonderfully, you can substitute with gluten-free pasta or whole wheat options for a healthier twist. Each type of pasta will contribute a unique texture and flavor to the dish.
Additionally, you can spice things up by adding red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or mixing in some sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition and taste.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy tomato pasta pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or some garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce. For a more complete meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp, which can complement the richness of the sauce.
To elevate your presentation, garnish the dish with freshly chopped basil and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This not only adds flavor but also makes your dish look appealing and restaurant-worthy.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any pasta shape can work, but cooking times may vary.
→ Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I add vegetables to this pasta?
Absolutely! Spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers would be great additions.
Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
This Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the richness of creamy tomato sauce with the convenience of one-pot cooking.
Created by: Felicity Grant
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Parmesan cheese for serving
How-To Steps
In a large pot, combine the pasta, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and the sauce thickens.
Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil, and serve with Parmesan cheese on top.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 10g